Camp Walleye draws biggest numbers to date

The Walleyes Unlimited Malta Chapter held it Seventh Annual Camp Walleye at Fourchette Bay and each of the 36 campers at this year's event came home with a fish story to tell...some bigger than others.

"Orin Mackey caught the biggest walleye of all the campers," said Walleye President Don Voegel. "He caught a 26-inch walleye and was given a fishing pole and tackle box for his efforts."

As for the female walleye campers, Kia Wasson and Erica Smith each caught 21-inch walleyes, tying for the biggest fish caught during the weekend for girls.

"Erica has actually (caught the biggest fish) another time so we gave the fishing pole to Kia and we are going to give Erica a gift certificate."

The Walleyes and the campers met at West Side Café for breakfast on Saturday morning before driving to Fourchette Bay to set up camp. From there, sack lunches were distributed to the campers, deck hands and the boat captains and the weekend's worth of fishing began.

Voegel said that there were 36 campers total with boats with boat captains and deck hands totaling about 55, making the trip about 90 people strong.

"In the past, the biggest total of campers we had was 22," Voegel said. "We were really happy with the turnout. And, in the past, the most boats we had were about 15, but this year we started out with 20."

Voegel attributed word-of-mouth and return campers for the high turnout this year. He said one of the best things he has seen as Camp Walleye has grown in popularity is former campers come back as boat captains, deckhands and assistants as they give back to the organization which gave to them.

"It is really neat to see so many people coming back to help," said Voegel.

The event took place on June 28 and 29 with all of the fishing taking place on the first day of the event as the second day of fishing was canceled due to high winds on the bay.

"We were able to fish for about eight hours on Saturday," Voegel said.

Voegel said that in place of the Sunday fishing trip, campers were treated to a worm-harness tying class instead. He said that each camper got the chance to tie hooks on a line and then attach beads and spinners to the line.

"The kids loved it," said Voegel. "They really had a fun time doing that and they did a good job tying. It was fun. Each child caught fish, Northern, walleye and croppy and everyone had a great time, campers and adults alike. "

The class was taught and sponsored by Jon Kautt of Malta. In order to be eligible to go fishing during the camping trip, each child first acquired a valid fishing and conservation license and during the two days, water safety was taught to each of the young anglers.

Voegel thanked all the volunteers and Walleyes members who helped over the two days.

"Without their help and support, the trip wouldn't be possible," he said.